Friday, July 19, 2013

2015 Honda Fit

Some "big" small car news coming out of the Honda camp today. These are official pictures of the 2015 Honda Fit (Japanese versions). But let's just put this out there now: Automotive News is saying the U.S. isn't expected to get a five-door version of the Fit Hybrid, rather a sedan and possibly an SUV based on the Fit. Hopefully, we'll at least get the five-door RS-style Fit (e.g. Fit Sport?). Now that I got that out of the way ...

Above is the Fit RS. I really like the looks of this model; more so than the last generation. It's got an aggressive front fascia, tasteful side skirts, and a sporty overall look. The Fit RS will be powered by a high-revving 1.5-liter engine, although there aren't any horsepower figures yet. It will be hooked up to a six-speed manual gearbox. According to Motor Trend:

The 1.5-liter RS sports version mated to a six-speed manual gearbox delivers on Honda's S2000 and NSX heritage. Perfectly matched to the 1.5-liter's high-revving engine, the manual's short throws and tight gate with a pleasing mechanical precision allow for quick, sure gear changes at all speeds. \

The Fit Hybrid does have some more specs available. It will be powered by a 1.5-liter engine and an electric motor using Honda's IMA (integrated motor assist) technology, and is good for 135 hp and 125 ft./lbs. of torque. It will be hooked up to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. According to Motor Trend, it'll be getting 85 MPG on the Japanese driving cycle; MT suggests about 55 MPG for the U.S. cycle. Additionally, the Fit Hybrid can be operated in EV mode at speeds up to 25 MPH.

Lastly there will be a 1.3-liter Fit making 98 hp and 88 ft./lbs. of torque and mated to a CVT. I'm betting that version will not be headed to North America.

The interior is also, of course, all new. Upon first glance, I'd say things look pretty nice. Honda is known for having great ergonomics, and I'm willing to bet this Fit will continue that tradition.

I haven't been a fan of most of Honda's latest vehicle designs. However, the Fit thankfully breaks that mold. Granted, I have not seen it in person, but assuming they don't change anything drastically for the North American market, I think Honda might have a winner on its hands. Just please, please, please give us the five-door gas version, preferably with the RS engine!

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